People and skills

Awards shortlist shines spotlight on the control room

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Control room officer shown side on with epaulette in focus.
Photo credit: NPCC

The shortlist for the Control Room Awards 2026 has been announced, highlighting individuals and teams who work behind the scenes to keep communities safe.

With hundreds of nominations recognising control room operators from across the UK’s emergency services, Mike Isherwood who founded the awards and is on the judging panel, said the quality of the nominations was “nothing short of incredible.”

“Every year we’re humbled by the stories we read, but the standard of entries for 2026 has reached a new level. From life-saving interventions and innovative projects to outstanding leadership and peer support, the nominations demonstrate the extraordinary contribution control room professionals make every single day.”

Among those shortlisted are finalists in categories including Leader of the Year, the British APCO Control Room Innovation Award, Call Taker of the Year, Dispatcher of the Year, Bravery and Courage, Control Room Ambassador, the John Gilhooly Award and Lifetime Achievement.

The awards ceremony takes place on 9 July in Hull.

For the full short list visit the Control Room Awards website.

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Catherine Levin

Catherine writes and commissions content from across the emergency services as well as interviewing senior leaders. She also hosts our webinar series exploring timely topics with a range of speakers.

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